Floatopia Returns to South Pointe Park This Saturday

You lucky ducks. For the second time this year, Floatopia is coming to South Pointe Park. The legendary floating fete draws thousands of partygoers to the shores of South Beach to drink, play, and -- duh -- float.

The fall incarnation of this event kicks off Saturday, so blow up those floaties, stock up on sunscreen, and pack your booze into plastic containers. The epic adventures are about to begin.

If you're one of the city's unlucky few who haven't made it to a Floatopia yet, now is your chance. The first seaside shindig went down in Miami in September 2012, and a second came around this past April. This weekend's event is the third of its kind, so organizers have learned a thing or two along the way.

The number one lesson? CLEAN UP AFTER YOURSELVES. C'mon, people, we're not complete pigs. During the last event, apparently everyone fled the scene due to a rain shower and left their messes behind. Not cool.

"Please stress that they clean up after themselves, or this might be our last Floatopia!" say the folks in charge.

And seriously, rain isn't gonna make you melt. Particularly after you've already been in the water all day. Duh.

Danielle Ungermann

Number two: Bring trash bags, a pump (blowing up floats ain't as easy as it looks), anchors for your floaties, and rope so everyone can stick together. "More anchors, more sand bags or gallons of water filled with sand tied to their floats," organizers suggest.

Number three: The cops are your friends. The second time around was more laid-back, and the cops were helpful, event heads say. "I think they realized we are a happy, peaceful group, so that's great!" But definitely keep your booze in plastic cups and coolers with spouts. Remember: Styrofoam, cans, and glass are illegal on the beach.

All in all, keep it clean, keep it safe, and have a freakin' blast. Don't be afraid to get creative with those floaties either. There's been everything from a dude attempting to walk on water to a life-size rubber duckie.

"I think the best thing about Floatopia hasn't been the floats but getting to see a new side of Miami -- seeing a diverse group of strangers come together and have a wholesome good time. It's none of that dress-to-impress stuff Miami is so well known for."